Best places to eat in Missoula Montana, is not only known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant outdoor activities, but also for its diverse and thriving food scene. From cozy cafes to upscale dining, the city offers a wide variety of culinary experiences that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re craving farm-to-table freshness, international flavors, or classic comfort food, Missoula has something to satisfy every palate. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best places to eat in Missoula, showcasing the local favorites and hidden gems that make this city a food lover’s paradise.
Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Missoula
Best places to eat in Missoula offers several high-end dining experiences for those looking to indulge in gourmet cuisine.
Here are some of the best fine dining restaurants in the city:
1. The Keep Restaurant
Situated atop a hill, The Keep Restaurant boasts stunning views and a refined menu featuring expertly prepared steaks, seafood, and an extensive wine selection.
2. Scotty’s Table
A French and Mediterranean-inspired bistro, Scotty’s Table is known for its use of locally sourced ingredients and elegant plating, making it a favorite for special occasions.
3. Plonk Missoula
A sophisticated wine bar and restaurant, Plonk offers creative dishes and a well-curated wine list, providing a classy yet comfortable dining experience.
4. Red Bird Restaurant
Best places to eat in Missoula Located in the historic Florence Hotel, Red Bird is renowned for its innovative seasonal menu, combining regional flavors with a contemporary twist.
5. Pearl Café
A charming, intimate restaurant, Pearl Café serves exquisite French-inspired dishes with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
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Top Casual Dining Spots
Missoula is home to a variety of casual dining spots that offer delicious meals in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a leisurely meal, these restaurants are great options.
4. The Notorious P.I.G. BBQ
Best places to eat in Missoula for authentic BBQ with a Midwest-style menu and smoked meats.
5. Bridge Pizza
A local favorite for wood-fired pizzas, subs, and salads using fresh, organic ingredients.
6. The Shack Café
A legendary breakfast and lunch spot serving classic American comfort food.
7. Tamarack Brewing Company
A brewpub featuring hearty meals like burgers, sandwiches, and local craft beer.
8. The Camino
A trendy eatery serving Mexican-inspired dishes with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
9. Market on Front
A deli-style café offering artisan sandwiches, fresh salads, and gourmet coffee.
Best Places for Breakfast and Brunch
Best places to eat in Missoula boasts some fantastic breakfast and brunch spots that offer everything from hearty American breakfasts to fresh and organic meals. Here are the top picks:
7. Catalyst Café
Famous for its farm-to-table breakfast and specialty coffee, Catalyst Café offers a cozy atmosphere with delicious omelets, pancakes, and homemade pastries.
8. Paul’s Pancake Parlor
A Missoula institution, Paul’s Pancake Parlor is known for its extensive selection of pancakes, waffles, and hearty breakfast plates.
9. The Farmer’s Stand
A charming café dedicated to fresh, locally sourced brunch options, including grain bowls, avocado toasts, and seasonal specials.
10. Black Cat Bake Shop
Best places to eat in Missoula Perfect for those with a sweet tooth, this bakery and café serves mouth watering pastries, quiches, and artisan bread, making it a great brunch destination.
11. Market on Front
A gourmet deli and café that offers delicious breakfast burritos, smoothie bowls, and espresso drinks, ideal for a quick and nutritious morning meal.
Best Burger Joints
10. Wally & Buck
A food truck-turned-restaurant serving gourmet burgers with locally sourced beef and house-made buns.
11. Five Guys
A well-known burger chain offering customizable burgers with fresh toppings and hand-cut fries.
12. Missoula Club
A historic bar and grill famous for its simple yet delicious burgers, made fresh to order.
13. Hoagieville
Best places to eat in Missoula for classic burgers, hoagies, and fries with a loyal following.
Best International Cuisine
Missoula is home to a vibrant international food scene, offering flavors from around the world. Whether you’re craving Thai, sushi, or Mediterranean fare, there are plenty of excellent choices.
13. Sa Wad Dee Thai
Authentic Thai food with traditional flavors and fresh ingredients, offering a variety of curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes.
14. Sushi Hana
Missoula’s go-to sushi spot for fresh and creative rolls, featuring high-quality fish and a cozy atmosphere.
15. Rattlesnake Market & Café
A mix of international and local dishes with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, serving everything from fresh salads to Mediterranean-inspired plates.
16. Tamarack Brewing Company
Best places to eat in Missoula While known for its craft beers, Tamarack also serves a great selection of globally inspired dishes, including tacos, ramen, and Asian-fusion plates.
17. Top Hat Lounge
A lively venue featuring live music and a diverse menu with flavors from Latin America, Asia, and Europe.
Best Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants
16. Green Source Missoula
A juice bar and health café offering smoothies, salads, and plant-based meals.
17. Five on Black
With customizable bowls, this spot is great for vegetarians and vegans.
18. Bernice’s Bakery
A delightful bakery with vegan-friendly pastries and light meals.
19. The Good Food Store Deli
A health-conscious grocery store with a deli that offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian-friendly options, including fresh salads, wraps, and hot entrees.
20. Tia’s Big Sky
A fantastic food cart specializing in Best places to eat in Missoula, including tacos, burritos, and grain bowls made with organic ingredients.
Best Coffee Shops and Bakeries
Missoula boasts a thriving coffee culture and a variety of bakeries offering everything from artisan pastries to freshly brewed specialty coffee. Whether you’re looking for a cozy café to work from or a bakery to satisfy your sweet tooth, here are some top picks:
19. Black Coffee Roasting Co.
A local favorite for organic, small-batch roasted coffee. Their rich, flavorful coffee pairs perfectly with their selection of pastries.
20. Drum Coffee
An artisan coffee shop with house-roasted beans and Italian-inspired drinks. A great spot for espresso lovers.
21. Le Petit Outre
Best places to eat in Missoula French-style bakery known for its croissants, baguettes, and pastries. The perfect stop for fresh bread and a warm cup of coffee.
22. Clyde Coffee
A trendy café known for its modern atmosphere, quality coffee, and unique drink options, including house-made syrups.
23. Break Espresso
A beloved local coffeehouse offering a cozy atmosphere, fresh-baked goods, and a strong cup of coffee to start your day.
Best Food Trucks in Missoula
Best places to eat in Missoula food truck scene offers a diverse selection of delicious, on-the-go eats. Whether you’re looking for gourmet burgers, authentic ethnic cuisine, or sweet treats, these food trucks have you covered.
22. Kamoon Arabian Cuisine
A fantastic food truck offering authentic Middle Eastern dishes like falafel, shawarma, and hummus.
23. Big Dipper Ice Cream
A beloved ice cream truck serving homemade, rich, and creamy flavors that locals rave about.
24. Clove Cart Pizza Peddlers
A mobile pizzeria specializing in wood-fired, hand-crafted pizzas with high-quality ingredients.
25. Missoula Taco Company
Best places to eat in Missoula A top choice for fresh, flavorful tacos with locally sourced ingredients and bold flavors.
26. Madeline’s Mediterranean
Serving Mediterranean favorites such as gyros, kebabs, and fresh salads with authentic seasonings.
Best Places for Drinks and Late-Night Bites
Whether you’re winding down after a long day or looking for a lively spot to continue the night, these places offer the perfect mix of great drinks and delicious late-night bites.
1. The Midnight Lounge – A cozy, dimly lit cocktail bar known for its craft cocktails and small plates. Try their signature espresso martini paired with truffle fries for a perfect late-night indulgence.
2. Urban Taproom – Best places to eat in Missoula If you’re a fan of craft beer, this spot boasts an impressive selection along with gourmet pub fare. Their loaded nachos and beer-battered wings are a must-try.
3. Street Eats Bar & Grill – This vibrant late-night eatery specializes in fusion street food, offering everything from Korean BBQ tacos to spicy ramen bowls, all served until 2 AM.
4. Rooftop 360 – For stunning city views and a classy atmosphere, this rooftop bar offers an extensive wine list and a menu featuring elevated bar snacks like charcuterie boards and sliders.
5. The After-Hours Diner – A local favorite for those who crave comfort food late into the night. Their milkshakes, burgers, and breakfast-all-day menu make it the ultimate late-night stop.
No matter your taste, these spots ensure you can sip, snack, and socialize well into the night.
Best places to eat in Missoula, Montana, boasts a delightful array of dessert spots that cater to every sweet tooth. Here are some top recommendations.
Conclusion: Missoula’s dining scene is a delightful mix of locally-owned gems and unique eateries that cater to every palate. From farm-to-table restaurants serving fresh Montana produce to cozy spots for international cuisine, the city has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or an upscale dining experience, Missoula ensures every meal is memorable. So, make sure to explore its best eateries and enjoy the rich flavors the city has to offer.